Attention Deficit Disorder in Adults
Adults with attention deficit disorder can be difficult to identify and treat. A therapist can help by examining symptoms and their reasons, and educating patients on how to structure their lives and change their behavior, and offering medication when necessary.
People with ADD/ADHD may have issues with hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. Symptoms include forgetfulness and difficulty in waiting for their turn, or difficulty in focusing on tasks or games.
The Signs of Inattention Type
The most prominent symptoms of this ADHD subtype include high distraction and trouble paying attention to the small details. Adults with inattention ADHD frequently find it difficult to finish tasks or complete projects that require constant mental effort, like writing, reading and completing homework. They may have difficulty remembering appointments or paying bills and are prone to making careless mistakes at work or in their home life.
While the symptoms of inattentive ADHD may have first appeared during childhood, they tend to go undiagnosed because adults are expected to manage their impulsive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms on their own. The issues they face can last into adulthood and affect their relationships, school performance and their career progression.
The signs of inattention ADHD include frequent fidgeting with hands and feet, difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities at a relaxed pace as well as difficulty waiting for their turn, and answering questions before they are completed. They also have difficulty staying organized at home and work and often arrive late for classes or meetings. People with inattention ADHD are often unable to stay focused during work or school are bored at meetings and need to chew gum or sip coffee to make it through them.
A medical professional will examine the person for any possible mental health issues or medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. Then, they will use their behavioral history to identify if they have ADD. This could involve speaking to the person's family members, colleagues and teachers and asking about their behavior in different situations. The health professional may also ask about the person’s mood and their recent medical history.
Psychostimulants are used to enhance alertness and boost brain signals. Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta and methylphenidates such as Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree and Ritalin are a few examples of these medications. Antidepressants that affect neurotransmitters in the brain are sometimes prescribed to people suffering from inattention ADHD in order to enhance their mood and improve their concentration. Wellbutrin (bupropion), and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are two examples. Other drugs that are not stimulants are also available. These are less likely to cause side effects and include guanfacine (Intuniv), bupropion/atomoxetine, and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors such as Strattera.
Symptoms of Hyperactive/Impulsive Type
People with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD struggle to sit still and remain focused. This symptom makes it difficult for them to concentrate on work or school assignments and can lead to careless errors. They also have difficulty following directions or completing complex tasks. They also struggle to stay on task while playing games or taking part in leisure activities. They frequently interrupt or interfere on conversations, games or other activities and can't wait for their turn. They might squirm or fiddle using their hands or feet or squirm or move in their chairs or pacing while they talk or listen.
Children with the hyperactive/impulsive type of ADD often have trouble waiting for their turn to speak or play, and they may blurt out their answers before other people have finished speaking. They have trouble with self-control, and frequently be in a hurry, unable to stop or slow down, even when they are at events that are organized like fairs and theme parks. They may struggle with managing tasks, completing projects over a long time or applying themselves to scheduled tasks or homework.
They have a lack of a sense of responsibility and frequently have a difficult time forming and maintaining friendships. They may also have trouble controlling their emotions, which can lead to mood swings and extreme depression. They may also have difficulty managing their time and finances and can make them more vulnerable to financial scams and other fraudulent activities.
Many people who suffer from ADHD don't receive a diagnosis until the age of adulthood, when their problems become more evident. As children, they might be overlooked by teachers or other adults who weren't aware of their problems. They could have reacted to their symptoms in a supportive atmosphere and thrived until they were confronted with the pressure of pursuing a job or raising a child which is when their issues became evident. The male-to-female* ratio of diagnosed ADHD is much higher in childhood, but the proportions become more similar as they reach adulthood.
People with ADHD often find that certain dietary supplements, like multiple vitamin, NeurOmega fish oil, GABA or taurine and Brain Vitale or NeuroMemory can reduce irritability and improve memory. Techniques for managing stress, such as deep breathing and regular exercise can be beneficial. They should discuss all options for treatment with their physician including non-stimulants and stimulants such as atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) and antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Symptoms of Mixed Type
People with combined type ADHD exhibit symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations. They have difficulty staying focused on tasks that require a lot of mental effort for a long time or causing things to stick in their heads for example, schoolwork homework, chores, or work. They tend to make careless mistakes at work, school as well as in their personal lives. These issues with attention and impulse can cause stress and lead to problems in relationships.
The signs of this disorder typically occur at various times throughout the day, and they may vary from mild to severe. They can be characterized by daydreaming and being easily distracted from their own thoughts, which may lead to forgetfulness; a tendency to lose things, like homework or keys; and difficulties following through on their tasks. They also struggle to stay still, and they may disrupt or take over games or other leisure activities.
Someone who has a mixed manifestation of ADHD may find that certain medication helps while others don't. Therefore, it's best to try one each time and analyze the outcomes carefully. Adults who have had this presentation since they were teenagers should have their treatment reviewed every six months, especially when there are any lifestyle changes that may impact the amount of medication needed.
It is crucial to remember that ADD or ADHD is not a problem of race or ethnicity or gender, although it may be more prevalent in those who are assigned males at birth (AMAB). Adults who show several symptoms and cannot explain them are typically diagnosed.
There are many methods to treat and manage ADD in adults, including behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes and medications. A combination of treatments is usually the best option, and medication can be prescribed in various forms, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts (Adderall), lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), and atomoxetine (Strattera). These medications help to increase concentration by increasing the supply of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Non-stimulants are also available, and these can be an ideal choice for those who aren't keen on taking stimulants or require a lower dose.
The symptoms of Combined Type
For people with combined type ADHD, the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity appear together. adult ADHD symptoms in men include forgetfulness, difficulties completing tasks, or having trouble sitting still. Impulsivity and hyperactivity can manifest as restlessness, fidgeting, or squirming. They often find it difficult to wait in line or follow instructions, which can result in frustration and rule-breaking behavior.
Adults who have a combination of ADHD symptoms usually have trouble understanding the social boundaries of a given situation, which can lead them to disrupt conversations or activities. They do this without thinking about the feelings of others. They tend to have difficulty with organizing strategies and get overwhelmed by the complexity of projects. In many cases, people with this ADHD appearance may also be suffering from depression or other mood disorders.
A proper diagnosis is essential to determine the most effective treatment plan. While many people with ADHD struggle to reach out for assistance, obtaining an accurate diagnosis can be a empowering experience that gives them the tools they require to manage their symptoms and live productive, satisfying lives.
To receive a diagnosis, doctors must identify at least six symptoms of inattention and at least five symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity to a degree that interferes with daily functioning. These symptoms must have been present before the age of 12 and persist for a minimum of six months to be considered ADHD. The symptoms must also be severe enough to impact the student's performance at school, at work or at home.
Experts do not fully understand the reason ADHD occurs. However, they do know that it is genetic and certain genes increase the likelihood of a person being diagnosed with the disorder. They also know that brain structure and brain chemistry play a role in the development of ADHD, and that some people get the disorder on their own, with no family history.
There are various behavioral treatments for adult ADHD, including structured routines and organizational strategies, talk therapy (Cognitive-behavioral therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), exercise and healthy sleep habits. In many cases, these treatments can be more effective than medications.